Bentonville, Arkansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Imagine diving into a world-class art scene, exploring outdoor adventures, and experiencing a vibrant culture in one city. Welcome to Bentonville, Arkansas, a place where you can find affordable and exciting things to do.

Bentonville sits in the Ozark Mountains, blending history with a modern vibe. It has museums, public art, parks, and bike trails for everyone. This city is perfect for travelers looking for something special.

Looking for culture, adventure, or history? Bentonville has it all. You can wander the downtown, try local food, and find unique spots that make it stand out.

Key Takeaways

• Bentonville, Arkansas offers a diverse range of affordable and exciting experiences for visitors.
• The city boasts world-class museums, captivating outdoor adventures, and a vibrant local culture.
• Explore Bentonville's renowned parks, trails, historic landmarks, and thriving downtown area.
• Discover the city's unique public art installations and savor the local cuisine.
• Bentonville seamlessly blends its rich history with a modern, progressive spirit.

Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a place full of art and culture for everyone. It has the famous Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the modern The Momentary, and the interesting Museum of Native American History. These places let you dive into the arts and learn about the area's deep heritage.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art welcomes everyone for free. It was started by Alice Walton and has a great collection of American art. You'll see works by famous artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Norman Rockwell.

There are special shows too, like "Exquisite Creatures" by Christopher Marley. The museum also has beautiful grounds with trails and sculptures in nature.

The Momentary

The The Momentary is a place for modern art and performances that doesn't charge admission. It used to be a cheese factory but now it's alive with art, music, and food. You can see solo shows by Kristine Potter and Awol Erizku, which talk about African American culture and Southern Gothic stories.

There are also events like live music and craft cocktails.

Museum of Native American History

The Museum of Native American History in Bentonville has over 10,000 Native American artifacts and exhibits. A big highlight is Tusker, a 12,000-year-old wooly mammoth made from three skeletons from Siberia. The museum is free for everyone and lets you explore Native American history and culture.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Bentonville, Arkansas, is known as the "mountain biking capital of the world." The

Coler Mountain Bike Preserve

is a top spot for cyclists at all levels. It has over 19 miles of trails, from easy to hard. Riders can enjoy the Ozark beauty and see art by OZ Art NWA along the trails.

Osage Park and Lake Bentonville

let visitors see the calm wetlands and nature. The park has peaceful trails and a lake. It also has The Quiver Archery Range for archery lessons. This mix of nature and activities makes it a favorite for outdoor lovers.

Slaughter Pen Bike Park

is famous for its mountain biking. It has over 40 miles of trails for all levels. You can rent bikes and join free rides with Bike School Bentonville on Saturdays. The park offers a thrilling experience for all cyclists.

"Bentonville is the mountain biking capital of the world, and the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is a must-visit destination for any cyclist visiting the area."

Discover Local History

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a city full of history. Two places you must see are the Walmart Museum and the Peel Museum and Botanical Garden. They show the area's past and the people who made it what it is today.

Walmart Museum

The Walmart Museum is in the old Walton's 5&10 store. It honors Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart. You can see exhibits about Walton's life and the 10 rules he used to grow his business. There's also Walton's old office and his 1979 Ford F150 pickup truck.

Plus, the Spark Café Soda Fountain lets you try Sam Walton's favorite ice cream, butter pecan.

Peel Museum and Botanical Garden

The Peel Museum is a beautiful Italianate mansion from 1875. It was once home to Samuel West Peel, a businessman and the first Arkansan in Congress. You can see the mansion, filled with Victorian-era furniture, and the lovely rose garden and old trees.

These museums let you explore Bentonville's history and learn about the people and events that shaped the city.

Bentonville, Arkansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a city full of attractions, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences. It's perfect for families or those who love art and food. The city has parks, trails, history, public art, shops, and dining that make it special.

Bentonville is known as the "mountain biking capital of the world." It has trails for all cyclists. The city is also home to museums like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the Museum of Native American History. These museums are free to visit.

At Ledger Bentonville, you can find the world's first bikeable building. It's a place where cycling meets architecture in a unique way.

Public art is everywhere in Bentonville, with murals and sculptures on almost every corner. The Bentonville Square is the city's heart, with a weekly Farmers Market and a monthly block party. These events let you dive into local culture and food.

Bentonville offers outdoor fun, cultural experiences, and a small-town feel. It's an affordable place to visit, with something for everyone. Come and make memories in this unique city.

"Bentonville is a city that truly has it all - from world-class museums and public art to endless outdoor recreation and a thriving culinary scene. It's a destination that offers affordable adventures and cultural immersion at every turn."

Enjoy Public Art and Parks

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a city full of public art and outdoor beauty. It's a place where visitors can explore and enjoy. The Compton Gardens and Arboretum is a key spot in the city. It's a 6-acre space filled with native plants, trees, and wildlife.

Compton Gardens and Arboretum

The Compton Gardens and Arboretum is around Dr. Neil Compton's old home. Dr. Compton loved the natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas. He worked hard to keep it safe.

Visitors can walk peaceful trails and see beautiful sculptures. The gardens are a quiet place away from city life. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of nature and its creatures.

Public Art Tour

Bentonville has many public art pieces all over the city. You can take a self-guided tour on foot or by bike. This way, you can see murals, sculptures, and more.

Many of these art pieces were made by OZ Art NWA. They work to bring more art to the area.

Walking through Bentonville, you'll see art that makes you think and look. It shows how much the city cares about art and culture. Whether you're in the peaceful Compton Gardens or checking out new art, Bentonville is a place for art and nature lovers.

Experience Downtown Bentonville

Welcome to Bentonville, Arkansas's heart - the historic downtown area known as Bentonville Square. This area is perfect for immersing yourself in local culture. You can browse unique boutiques and feel the community's vibrant spirit.

Bentonville Square

The Bentonville Square is a 16-block historic district that takes you back in time. Walk along the red brick sidewalks and see the candy-striped awnings on the shops. You'll find stores with artisanal gifts, apparel, home decor, and antiques.

The square's lively atmosphere shows the community's pride and passion. Meet local artists, enjoy live music, and feel the welcoming vibe that makes Bentonville's downtown special.

Bentonville Farmers Market

Visiting Bentonville's downtown is incomplete without the Bentonville Farmers Market. Open from late spring to mid-fall, it's a place full of fresh, local produce. You'll find juicy peaches, sweet berries, and heirloom tomatoes.

It's more than a shopping spot. The market is a cherished event that celebrates Bentonville's local food, culture, and spirit.

Savor Local Cuisine

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a food lover's dream with its diverse tastes. You can enjoy everything from the unique Tusk and Trotter to the fresh, gluten-free dishes at Conifer. The 8th Street Market area boasts top-notch eateries like Yeyo's Mexican Street Food and Co-Op Ramen. On Walton Blvd, you'll find spots like Meld, Crisp & Green, and Flavors Indian Cuisine & Lounge.

The Hive restaurant in the 21c Hotel is a gem, known for its outstanding food. It's run by chef Matthew McClure, a James Beard Award Semi-finalist. For $20, Markham & Fitz Chocolate offers tours where you can see chocolate making and taste different chocolates. Onyx Coffee Lab lets you watch baristas make drinks and offers a variety of coffee flavors.

The Bentonville Farmer's Market is open on Saturdays from 7:30 am - 1 pm. It's a place for fresh foods, crafts, and more, supporting local businesses. Spark Cafe Soda Fountain, near the Walmart Museum, serves delicious ice cream at great prices. Core Public House is a spot for beer flights and welcomes dogs. Scotch and Soda is one of the top whiskey bars in the country, with a wide whiskey selection.

Preacher's Son Rooftop Bar is a unique spot in an old church. It combines dining and nightlife in a special way.

Plan Your Stay

Bentonville, Arkansas, has many places to stay for every traveler. You can find a luxurious spot in the city center or something more affordable. The city has options for everyone.

Places to Stay

For a deep dive into culture, book a room at the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Bentonville. This hotel has art exhibitions, installations, and cultural events. The museum is free and open all year, letting you see contemporary art up close.

If you're on a budget, check out downtown Bentonville vacation rentals. These offer a home-like feel, letting you see the city like a local.

Getting Around

Getting around Bentonville is easy with its good transport options. The NWA Trailblazers Park and Ride guide helps you use the trail system. You can walk or bike around the city.

If you prefer driving, downtown Bentonville parking is easy to find. There's a map to show you where to park near your destination.

With a wide range of Bentonville accommodations and transport options, you can plan your stay just how you like. This ensures a great visit to Bentonville, Arkansas.

Upcoming Events and Festivals

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a city full of life, with events and festivals all year round. You can find everything from outdoor adventures to top art shows. For the latest on what's happening, check the "This Weekend in Bentonville" blog. It's updated weekly with news on events and activities.

The Momentous festival is a big deal every year, with over 10 famous artists and local stars. They focus on electronic music. Then, there's FreshGrass on May 17-18, celebrating bluegrass and roots music. For those who love cycling, the Bentonville Bike Fest from May 24-26 brings together top cyclists and BMX riders.

Art fans should mark their calendars for the Exquisite Creatures exhibition at the Crystal Bridges Museum. It runs from March 16, 2024, to July 29, 2024. The Momentary will also have exciting shows like Kristine Potter: Dark Waters and Awol Erizku: Mystic Parallax from May 19, 2024, to October 13, 2024.

Bentonville also has lots of outdoor activities and cultural events all year. Whether you like nature, art, or music, there's something for you. This vibrant Arkansas city has it all.

Conclusion

Bentonville, Arkansas, is a place full of fun and affordable things to do. It has top museums like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Plus, outdoor spots like the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve and Osage Park.

Experience the city's art by exploring public art, visiting the Walmart Museum and Peel Museum. Don't forget to check out the shops and restaurants in Bentonville Square. Bentonville has something for everyone, from culture lovers to outdoor enthusiasts.

The city is always growing, with new projects like the Quilt of Parks linear park. Bentonville is becoming a go-to spot for affordable adventures and top activities. So, plan your visit to Bentonville, Arkansas, and dive into a world of art, culture, history, and nature.